Samira Zad

Research Expertise

Research Expertise Statement
Samira Zad, Ph.D.
Florida International University (FIU)

My research lies at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and their applications for societal impact. I focus on leveraging AI to solve real-world challenges, with an emphasis on advancing educational technologies, improving healthcare, and addressing community needs in times of crisis.

A significant aspect of my work explores the adoption of Generative AI (GenAI) in computer science curricula, particularly at Research 1 (R1) universities and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). I examine barriers to integration, identify enablers for faculty adoption, and develop strategies to foster equity and innovation in student learning. This research bridges computational advancements with pedagogical practices, contributing to more inclusive and effective AI education.

My work also emphasizes AI for Social Impact, particularly in disaster preparedness. I am currently investigating challenges faced by Hispanic communities in Florida during hurricanes, applying NLP and predictive modeling to improve communication and resource allocation. This interdisciplinary project addresses equity and accessibility in emergency management.

In healthcare, I design foundational ML models tailored for medical professionals to enhance patient outcomes and promote data-informed decision-making. Collaborating with institutions such as Baptist Hospital, I aim to make these technologies accessible to non-technical audiences while ensuring practical implementation.

Through my research, I strive to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI methodologies and real-world applications, fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and communities to drive meaningful and equitable societal change.